Harry Potter's World: Renaissance Science, Magic and Medicine March 22, 2010

An exhibition developed and produced by the National Library of Medicine’s National Institutes of Health will be on display at the Enid Public Library from March 22nd to May 1st. Harry Potter’s World: Renaissance Science, Magic, and Medicine explores the world of Harry Potter and its roots in Renaissance magic, science, and medicine.

In 1997, British author J. K. Rowling introduced the world to Harry Potter and a literary phenomenon was born. Millions of readers have followed Harry to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where he discovers his heritage, encounters new plants and animals, and perfects his magical abilities. Although a fantasy story, the magic in the Harry Potter books is partially based on Renaissance traditions that played an important role in the development of Western science, including alchemy, astrology, and natural philosophy. Incorporating the work of several 15th and 16th century thinkers, the seven-part series examines important ethical topics such as the desire for knowledge, the effects of prejudice, and the responsibility that comes with power. This exhibition explores Harry Potter’s world, its roots in Renaissance science, and the ethical questions that affected not only the wizards of Harry Potter, but also the historical thinkers featured in the series.

The Grand Opening of the exhibit will be held Friday, March 26, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. There will be prizes for people who come in come in costume, games, crafts, and refreshments. Each Tuesday afternoon, beginning March 23, and ending April 27 an activity will be held for children and teens. There will be crafts, games, trivia, and fun. The Harry Potter movies will be shown on Friday afternoons, beginning March 26 and ending April 30. Our First Friday on April 2nd will have a Harry Potter theme as we stay open until 9:00 p.m. with other downtown businesses. The Tuesday Night Knitting group welcomes new members and will be doing a project on the scarves that the characters wore at Hogwarts. There will also be an adult book discussion for grown-ups who have enjoyed the Harry Potter series. For details about these programs and others at the library call 234-6313, or check our calendar on the library website http://www.enid.org/library .

Did you know the Library has a blog? Visit us online: http://plegcblog.wordpress.com Find us on twitter: @plegc, and be our fan on Facebook!